This pioneering introduction to Stanislavsky's methods and modes of actor training covers all of the essential elements of his System. Recreating 'truthful' behaviour in the artificial environment, awareness and observation, psychophysical work, given circumstances, visualization and imagination, and active analysis are all introduced and explored.

1. Invitation to the Quest for Inspiration 2. The Actor's Palette: Interconnected elements of actions 3. Preparing for Inspiration: The creative state 4. Dedication to the Creative Space 5. The Psychophysical Instrument: Exploring mind-body connections 6. Communion: Deepening communication and mutual influence 7. Givens: Discovering and endowing circumstances 8. Non-Verbal Action: Communicating through behaviour 9. Embodying Voice and Speech 10. Verbal Action: Communicating with words and subtext 11. Emotional Experience 12. Reconnaissance: Mining the script and expanding to meet its challenges 13. Active Analysis through Events and Character Embodiment 14. Active Analysis through Psychophysical Action - Discoveries on the way to experiencing a role 15. Collaboration: Entering the production and rehearsal process 16. Experiencing the Creative Life: Communion with audience and society 17. The Evolving Stanislavsky System Appendices